Glen Robert Ward

Glen Robert "Bob" Ward, 92, a long time Springville resident, passed away peacefully at his beloved ranch in Texas on February 28, 2026. Bob grew up in North Ogden surrounded by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. As a child, he worked on a farm alongside German prisoners of war during World War II. He said that they were homesick and many of them treated him like a son or little brother, teaching him some of their language. Years later, he served his church mission in Germany.
In 1961, Bob married Beverly Colby. They moved to Lansing, Michigan where Bob completed his PhD and Bev finished her bachelor's degree. During that time, both of their children were born, Cathy and Colby. In 1965, the young family moved to California where Bob taught as an assistant professor at the University of California at Santa Barbara. Three years later, the family relocated to Houston where Bob earned his full professorship and taught graduate studies until 1982. When Colby showed an aptitude and interest in sports, Bob volunteered as a coach for football and baseball. The other coaches, players and their families became a tight-knit group for the family.
Bob joined the staff at BYU in 1982 where he worked in the Honors Department until his retirement in 2012. He wasn't ready to fade into the sunset, however. He and Colby bought and developed a hunting and cattle ranch near Chico, Texas. Bob loved taking care of the cattle and chickens, family gatherings and attending his great-grandchildren's sporting events.
He is predeceased by his wife, parents, Glen and Lois Ward, brothers Jim and Lynn, his dear friend and cousin Leon Woodfield. He is survived by his brother Don and sister Patricia as well as his children, four grand-children, and seven great-grandchildren.
At his request, the family is conducting a private service in his honor.